Coungeau House, Bribie Island — A Toc H Queensland Project
2026 looks like being a busy and exciting year for this wonderful facility. The members of the 2026 Coungeau House Management Committee were endorsed at the recent Toc H Queensland Executive Committee meeting. The returning committee include Ray Geise OAM (Chairman), Chris Clark (Treasurer and Liaison Officer) and Robert and Linda Clacher. New members include Nicky Desoe (Secretary), Nic Dubravic, Mark Heinrich and Richard Halligan. When welcoming these enthusiastic volunteers, it is the appropriate time to recognize the many years of dedicated support from Lorraine Burns. Lorraine’s advice, input and efficiency were highly valued, and her contribution will not be forgotten.
Toc H Queensland, through their Coungeau House project, continues to provide an extremely valuable service on Bribie Island. The hall is the location that enables a variety of local organisations to provide social opportunities for, in general, the older members of the Island community. Although charges for hall usage is minimal, it is the constant bookings along with generous donations from the “Hundred Club” members and small grants that have produced the funds to enable Coungeau House to date to be self-funded. It also has influenced the minimal charges for short term emergency accommodation that continues to be provided through St Vincent de Paul and Pumicestone Community Support. In “Caring for People” Toc H also supports a U3A initiative that provides support for those who care for a family member with dementia.
Toc H Qld and the Coungeau House Management Committee are developing a close relationship with the Bribie Island National Service Association. Returning to the original Toc H foundations, a request from this organisation to provide a safe and welcoming location to enable effective counselling, assistance and support to ex-service men and women and their families has received the support.
It is appropriate that we recognize the work carried out over the last 14 months by Bradley Laurens as caretaker of Coungeau House. In early 2025 Bradley was invited to take on the temporary role as caretaker and as such he was very highly regarded by the many hall users as he always worked to ensure the hall was clean and tidy and furniture arranged to cater for the needs of each group. Bradley worked consistently to maintain the facility grounds and developed a positive working relationship with the close neighbours, and grounds. Unfortunately, it is now time to move towards making the position more permanent and as a result the position of caretaker has to be advertised and go through the formal process of written application and interview.
Caretaker Position — Coungeau House
36 Banya Street, Bongaree, Bribie Island
The position would suit a practical, community-minded individual or couple. The Caretaker is responsible for managing the entire facility and overall day-to-day operation of Coungeau House. While the role is voluntary it does include free on-site accommodation, electricity, water and internet services. There is a strong focus on hospitality, safety, and community service aligned with the values of Toc H.
The successful applicant/s must be eligible to have a Qld Government Blue Card and complete Child Safe training.
Applications. The application form and information outlining the caretaker role and responsibilities are available on request via email at coungeauhouse@gmail.com. Completed application form to be sent to coungeauhouse@gmail.com or mailed to Coungeau House, 36 Banya Street, Bongaree 4507.
Applications close 30 May 2026.
All Queensland Toc H members will also be invited to attend a gathering on Saturday 16 May 2026 at Coungeau House. During this time there will be the opportunity members to meet fellow Toc H members and for each of the branches to share information on their special projects. Time will also be allocated to allow the members to contribute to discussions relating to the medium and long term projects to be included in the strategic plan for the Coungeau House facility.
Coungeau House recently had an audit of the existing facilities was conducted. This audit, identifying a number of short term, medium and long term projects, will help to develop a strategic plan for the maintenance and development of the entire Coungeau House complex. In an attempt to address some of the short term issues a working bee is planned for the weekend of the 11 and 12 April. Members of Toc H Brisbane, Toc H Bribie and General Branch will be involved in mainly painting and gardening activities. We look forward to a fun and productive time.
Chris Clark
Bribie Island and Coungeau House Committee member
